GOVERNOR-GENERAL

Hokitika Guardian, 28 September 1920, Page 4

GOVERNOR-GENERAL

SWORN IN.

(Per Press Association.)

WELLINGTON, Sept. 27

Lord Jellicoe took the oath of office at the main entrance of Parliamentary Buildings at 3 o’clock. Some thousands of the public attended. The King’s Commission having been read, Lord Jellicoe took the oath of allegiance, and then a special oath of office in the following terms:—“l John Rushworth, Viscount Jellicoe, Admiral of the Fleet, do solemnly swear that I will duly execute the office of Governor-General of the Dominion of New Zealand and its dependencies, and that I will duly and impartially administer justice therein. So help me God.” The oath was administered by the Chief Justice, who with Mr Massey signed the official documents as witnesses.

Mr Massey spoke welcoming Lord and Lady Jellicoe. He hoped thenstay would be long and pleasing.

Lord Jellicoe, in reply, said he took up his duties with a very deep sense of the honour conferred on him. He assured his hearers he and Lady Jellicoe would do everything to discharge their duties. He hoped, with divine assistance, they would he able to do all that lay in their power to further the Dominion’s interest during their stay here. At Mr Massey’s call hearty cheers were given for Lord and Lady Jellicoe, who then left for Government House. A Gazette Extraordinary containing Lord Jellicoe’s proclamation that he has assumed office was issued to-night. CIVIC RECEPTION AT NIGHT.

WELLINGTON, Sept. 27

A c-ivie reception was accorded Lord Jellicoe to-night in Town Hall, which was crowded. Mayor Luke presided. Among those present were members of tho Cabinet and of both Houses of Parliament, and the City Council, and a section of the audience consisted of members of the Early Settlers’ Association. Mr Luke presented an address on behalf of the City Council. Speeches Kvere delivered by Mr Massey, the Chief Justice, Mr Wilford (Leader of the Liberal Party), and Mr W. Parry (on behalf of the Returned Soldiers’ Association). All expressed high admiratios of Lord Jellicoe’s war record, and said in effect that they believed his appointment was one of the best things that could have happened to this country. Lord Jellicoe made a formal reply, which he read. He then observed than no formal words could convey an idea of the deep impression that the reception had made upon him. Both he and Lady Jellicoe looked forward to a very happy time in New Zealand. He intended to take a,n interest in not only what made for the material prosperity of the country, hut also in the sports of the people.